Childhood Robert Hooke , the son of John Hooke was born at Freshwater, a part of the Isle of Wight. Robert's father was a curator for The All Saint's Church in thier town. Robert Hooke was born on July 18, 1635. The majority of young Hooke's education was provided by his father John, but he also became an apprentice to an artist. Robert moved to London and enrolled into the Westminister School when he was thirteen after his father committed suicide. The head master, Dr. Busby, took him in and encouraged is learning. Hooke apears to have been an avid learner. According to Hooke's biography at roberthooke.org, Young Robert Hooke has been reported to have learned many ancient languages, mastered the first six books of Euclid's Elements in week, and learned to play the organ.